New Jersey is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast, offering a variety of family-friendly activities and environments perfect for a day out with your preschooler. Here are some of the best beaches to visit with young children, ensuring a fun, safe, and memorable experience for the whole family.
1. Cape May
Cape May is a charming, family-friendly beach destination known for its historic Victorian architecture and clean, wide beaches. Highlights for preschoolers include:
- Cape May County Park & Zoo: Free admission and a wide variety of animals.
- The Cape May Lighthouse: Climb to the top for a fantastic view, or explore the nearby nature trails.
- Sunset Beach: Known for its beautiful sunsets and the chance to find Cape May diamonds (smooth, translucent quartz pebbles).
2. Ocean City
Ocean City prides itself on being a family-oriented beach town with a no-alcohol policy on the beach and boardwalk, making it a safe environment for young children. Key attractions include:
- The Boardwalk: Offers mini-golf, amusement parks, arcades, and kid-friendly rides.
- Playland’s Castaway Cove: An amusement park with rides suitable for preschoolers.
- Pirate Island Golf: A fun, pirate-themed mini-golf course.
3. Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach is another fantastic option, especially for families with preschoolers. It boasts:
- Jenkinson’s Boardwalk: Offers an aquarium, funhouse, arcades, and kiddie rides.
- Jenkinson’s Aquarium: A small, child-friendly aquarium featuring seals, sharks, penguins, and interactive touch tanks.
- Manasquan Inlet: Perfect for watching boats and enjoying a peaceful walk.
4. Wildwood
Wildwood offers a wide, sandy beach that is free to access, along with a bustling boardwalk packed with family activities. Highlights include:
- Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks: Features amusement rides and water parks designed for young children.
- Doo Wop Experience Museum: A fun, retro museum showcasing 1950s and 1960s pop culture, with neon lights and vintage memorabilia.
- Wildwoods Convention Center: Often hosts family-friendly events and activities.
5. Long Beach Island (LBI)
Long Beach Island is a quieter option, known for its clean beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. Key spots include:
- Fantasy Island Amusement Park: A small amusement park with rides suited for young children.
- Thundering Surf Waterpark: Features gentle water slides and a lazy river, perfect for preschoolers.
- Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: Explore the lighthouse and enjoy the scenic views and nature trails.
6. Asbury Park
Asbury Park combines a lively atmosphere with family-friendly attractions, making it a great spot for a beach day with your preschooler. Attractions include:
- Asbury Splash Park: A safe and fun water playground for young children.
- Silverball Museum Arcade: Offers vintage pinball machines and arcade games that kids and parents will both enjoy.
- The Boardwalk: Features mini-golf, kiddie rides, and plenty of ice cream shops.
7. Sandy Hook
Sandy Hook is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and offers a more natural beach experience with educational opportunities. Key features include:
- Seven Miles of Beach: Plenty of space for building sandcastles and playing in the surf.
- Sandy Hook Lighthouse: The oldest working lighthouse in the United States, with guided tours available.
- Marine Academy of Science and Technology: Offers marine and environmental science programs that might have family-friendly events.
Tips for Visiting the Beach with Preschoolers
- Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, water, snacks, and extra clothes.
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on your child, especially near the water. Consider bringing a life jacket if they’re not strong swimmers.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure everyone drinks plenty of water, especially on hot days.
- Rest and Shade: Take breaks in the shade to avoid sunburn and overheating. Bring a beach umbrella or tent.
- Entertainment: Pack toys like buckets, shovels, and beach balls to keep your preschooler entertained.
Exploring New Jersey’s beaches with your preschooler can be a delightful experience, filled with sun, sand, and plenty of fun activities. Each beach offers its unique charm and family-friendly attractions, ensuring that you and your little one can enjoy a memorable and safe beach outing.
